Student Support Manager

About us

Our mission is to enable professional and continuing education throughout life, and to widen access to higher education. We design, deliver and curate a portfolio of world leading short courses and award bearing qualifications in a broad range of disciplines.

The Student Support Team operates within the Academic Centres Division, led by the Deputy Director, to whom this role reports. It provides wellbeing and pastoral support to learners on both award and non award bearing courses. You will be working closely with colleagues across the Institute and within the Collegiate University to ensure a proactive and holistic approach to supporting our students.

Our courses are delivered both online and in person, at Madingley Hall and across other venues in central Cambridge. Flexibility to travel between sites will be required.

The Role

Are you passionate about student wellbeing and success? Do you thrive in a dynamic educational environment where every day brings new opportunities to make a difference? If so, we'd love to hear from you!

We are seeking a dedicated and empathetic Student Support Manager to lead and coordinate our student support services. This pivotal role ensures that all students receive the guidance, resources, and care they need to thrive academically.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement student support strategies and wellbeing initiatives.
• Lead a team of support staff and work effectively with colleagues across the Institute and the University.
• Act as the primary point of contact for students requiring additional support.
• Collaborate with academic staff to identify and assist students.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of support services and interventions.
• Maintain accurate records and ensure compliance with safeguarding and data protection policies.

What We're Looking For

• Proven experience in leading/setting up student support services, pastoral care, or a related field.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• A proactive, compassionate, and student-centred approach.
• Knowledge of safeguarding practices and relevant legislation.
• Willingness to undertake training and keep abreast of sector legislation and good practice.
• Relevant qualification or significant experience related to safeguarding, mental health support or counselling.

Benefits

• 41 days annual leave, inclusive of Bank Holidays
• Defined benefits pension schemes
• Flexible working options
• Family-friendly initiatives
• Career and Professional development opportunities
• Support for health & mental wellbeing
• Discounts on shopping
• Rental deposit scheme
• Public transport season ticket loans

Elements of this role are suitable for hybrid working, where staff can split their time between in-person collaboration and remote working. The frequency of the remote elements of the role can be discussed with the recruiting manager.

Informal enquiries are encouraged and can be made to Monica Kelly, Deputy Director Academic Centres Division, monica.kelly@pace.cam.ac.uk

Enquires about the application process should be directed to HR@Pace.cam.ac.uk

Please ensure that you upload your CV and a cover letter (the length of which must not exceed two pages)

The closing date for applications is 31 August 2025. Interviews will take place on 11 September 2025

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Please quote reference EA46928 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

Apply online

Key information

• Department/location: University of Cambridge Institute of Professional and Continuing Education
• Salary: £35,608-£46,049
• Reference: EA46928
• Category: Academic-related
• Date published: 12 August 2025
• Closing date: 31 August 2025